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South Florida Crime

WILTON MANORS (CBSMiami) – Wilton Manors Police are searching for a pair of small thieves with a penchant for big burglaries.

According to Wilton Manors Police, a male and a female teenager went into the U.S.A. Auto Care Plus store on the 2600 block of N. Dixie Highway to sell candy from an open box. Surveillance video showed that when no employees were at the front desk, the girl went behind the counter and stole an iPhone before both left.

“I couldn’t believe it. I couldn’t believe it,” Maria Parodi said as she watched back the surveillance video from her Wilton Manors auto repair shop. “It’s two children.”

She was in the garage working on a car when the two kids entered. The boy must have heard her, Parodi explained, because at one point he ducks for cover.

“He’s looking at the door outside (because) we’re right outside,” Parodi said. “He’s scooping down so they don’t see him.”

Parodi believes the boy is between 13 and 14 years old. She thinks the girl is even younger, maybe 11.

“He makes the little girl do his dirty work,” Parodi said.

Shortly thereafter, the same duo walked into the 21st Century Dental office on NE 9th Avenue and found an open receptionist window and unattended front desk. The girl climbed through the open window and opened the door for the boy.

Both were seen going in and out of exam rooms until they found a laptop on the counter of a rear room. They took the computer and left through the front door, according to Wilton Manors Police.

Wilton Manors police said the female was wearing a multi-colored striped hooded jacket, knee-length jean shorts, and had her hair in pigtails. The male was described by police as wearing a white t-shirt, red shorts, and carrying a black back pack.

Both are believed to be between 13 and 16-years-old.

“I hope they catch them,” Parodi said. “That’s my main concern. Maybe these kids have a second chance to stop them from doing this.”

Parodi said she blames the parents.

“I hope parents start taking more action and paying attention to what their kids are doing, what they’re bringing home. Dedicate some time to them. I think we’re neglecting our children and this is the result of that.”

If you have any information about the crime, call Wilton Manors Police or Miami-Dade Crimestoppers at 305-493-TIPS (8477).